What does a flashing red light at an intersection mean?

A flashing red light at an intersection means that drivers must treat it like a stop sign. This requires coming to a complete stop before proceeding. The purpose of the flashing red light is to alert drivers to the need for extra caution at that location, signaling that they must yield to any vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection before continuing through. This rule ensures the safety of all road users by emphasizing the importance of stopping and assessing the situation at the intersection.

The other options may suggest various actions, but none correctly convey the mandated response to a flashing red light. Treating it like a traffic signal would imply that drivers could proceed without stopping, which is not the case. Proceeding with caution does not indicate the necessary complete stop required by law. Lastly, indicating a pedestrian crossing misrepresents the function of a flashing red light, which primarily focuses on stopping traffic rather than signaling pedestrian movement.